Which statement correctly differentiates between operant conditioning and classical conditioning?
A) Operant conditioning uses both reinforcement and punishment to condition behavior; classical conditioning uses mainly punishment.
B) Operant conditioning uses both reinforcement and punishment to condition behavior; classical conditioning uses mainly reinforcement.
C) In operant conditioning, a response elicits a stimulus; in classical conditioning, a stimulus elicits a response.
D) Unlike operant conditioning, classical conditioning refers to mental processes going on in the learner's brain.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The key difference between operant conditioning and classical conditioning is that in operant conditioning, a response or behavior elicits a stimulus or consequence, while in classical conditioning, a stimulus elicits a response. This means that in operant conditioning, the behavior is voluntary and controlled by the consequences that follow it, while in classical conditioning, the behavior is involuntary and controlled by the association between two stimuli. Option A and B are incorrect because classical conditioning does not use punishment or reinforcement to condition behavior but rather associates two stimuli. Option D is incorrect because both operant conditioning and classical conditioning involve observable behavioral changes and do not refer to mental processes.

Which Statement Correctly Differentiates Between Operant Conditioning and Classical Conditioning